Daniel Efe/Port Harcourt
Sequel to the promise made by the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike to workers on May Day, he has inaugurated the Committees on the administration/disbursement of the civil servants revolving loan scheme and the Rivers State N200million Monthly Traders and Young Entrepreneurs Interest Free Loan Scheme.
The governor inaugurated the two committees on Wednesday at the Government House, Port Harcourt.
Inaugurating the Committees, Governor Wike stated the Committees are vital because they revolve around the empowerment of Rivers people.
He said that the civil servants revolving loan scheme was initiated by the Odili administration, but neglected by the Amaechi administration.
He said that his administration is reintroducing because of the need to reach indigent civil servants. The governor noted that the loan scheme is dedicated to civil servants between grade levels 1 and 13.
“This loan scheme is to reduce the burden of civil servants between levels 1 and 13. All those qualified should be granted. It is a loan for all civil servants, irrespective of their political affiliation. Civil servants must not abuse the loan scheme.”
Governor Wike added: “This government means well for civil servants. We have no problem with labour. No person can apply twice”.
He informed that N100m monthly will be made available to the committee for disbursement. He directed the committee to start work immediately.
On the N200million Monthly Traders and Young Entrepreneurs Interest Free Loan Scheme, Governor Wike said that it is meant for every businessman or woman resident in Rivers State.
“We believe that we have to encourage young entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. They will have access to funds”, the Rivers State Governor said.
The governor directed that the loan beneficiaries must reside in Rivers State and must be registered as voters in the state.
He charged the committee to advertise the availability of the loan and the modalities for accessing the loan.
Responding on behalf of the Committees, Head of Service, Mr Reuben Godwins assured the Rivers State Governor that they will deliver on their mandates.
He thanked the Rivers State Governor for his commitment to the welfare of Rivers people.